Anoxia happens when your body or brain completely loses its oxygen supply. Anoxia is usually a result of hypoxia. This means that a part of your body doesn't have enough oxygen. When your body is harmed by a lack of oxygen, it's called a hypoxic-anoxic injury.
Is hypoxia the same as anoxia?
Hypoxic refers to a partial lack of oxygen; anoxic means a total lack. In general, the more complete the deprivation, the more severe the harm to the brain and the greater the consequences.
What can cause anoxia?
There are a variety of situations that could lead to anoxia, including:
- cardiac or respiratory arrest.
- choking, suffocation, or strangulation.
- a drug overdose.
- carbon monoxide or smoke inhalation.
- blood loss causing the blood pressure to drop.
